The ceremonial flame for China's 15th National Games was ignited Thursday in Guangzhou through an innovative process involving combustible ice harvested from 1,500 meters below the South China Sea. This 'source flame' symbolizes both technological advancement and historical connections, having traveled aboard the research vessel Ocean Geology 2 along a Maritime Silk Road route before reaching land.
Over the next month, the torch will journey through the Greater Bay Area, including stops in Shenzhen and the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macao. The relay highlights regional unity ahead of the Games' opening on November 9, which will feature over 10,000 athletes competing across 34 sports.
Organizers emphasized the flame's unique origin story as a tribute to China's energy innovation. The combustible ice extraction process, developed domestically, represents what officials call 'a new chapter in sustainable resource utilization.'
This marks the first time Hong Kong and Macao will participate as co-hosts in select events, reflecting strengthened integration within the Greater Bay Area development initiative. The Games for Persons with Disabilities and Special Olympics follow in December, completing a two-month celebration of sportsmanship.
